Last reviewed: 2026-04-19 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
The Winchester AA Heavy Target 20 gauge shotshell pushes 1 oz of #8 lead shot to 1165 fps from a 2-3/4″ hull, delivering the pattern density and downrange energy trap, skeet, and sporting clays shooters need for consistent breaks. This is a target load engineered for volume — the high-strength hull withstands multiple reloads, the Boxer primer ensures reliable ignition round after round, and the specially designed wad reduces felt recoil without sacrificing pattern performance. Winchester AA shotshells are 20-gauge target ammunition built for shooters who measure success in cases, not boxes.
Load Profile
Winchester loads the AA Heavy Target with hard lead shot — #8 pellets that maintain spherical integrity through the forcing cone and choke, delivering tighter patterns and more complete clay breaks than softer alloys. The 2-1/2 dram equivalent pushes the 1 oz payload to 1165 fps, a velocity balanced for 16-yard trap singles, skeet doubles, and crossing sporting clays targets without the shoulder punishment of magnum field loads. The 8-point star crimp seals the hull for consistent ignition and smooth feeding in semi-automatic and pump-action shotguns. This is boxer-primed, non-corrosive, reloadable ammunition — clay shooters who save their hulls can reload the AA case multiple times before the brass fails.
Specs at a Glance
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 20 Gauge |
| Shell length | 2-3/4″ |
| Shot type | Lead Shot |
| Shot weight | 1 Ounce |
| Shot size | #8 |
| Velocity | 1165 fps |
| Dram equivalent | 2-1/2 |
| Wad/hull | Specially engineered wad, high-strength hull |
| Crimp | 8-Point Star |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Buffered | No |
| Rounds/case | 250 (10 boxes of 25) |
| Intended use | Target (trap, skeet, sporting clays) |
| Manufacturer | Winchester |
This is a smooth-bore load — rifled barrels and sabot slugs are a different animal. For high-volume clay shooting in 20 gauge, explore our full Winchester 20 gauge ammo selection.
Safe Handling & Compliance
Federal law requires purchasers to be at least 18 years old for rifle and shotgun ammunition, and at least 21 for handgun ammunition. Ammunition cannot be shipped to certain states, counties, and cities — review our ammunition shipping restrictions before ordering. Store ammunition in a cool, dry location away from heat sources and out of reach of unauthorized users.
- Always follow the four universal rules of firearms safety — treat every firearm as loaded, keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire, never point the muzzle at anything you’re not willing to destroy, and be certain of your target and what lies beyond it.
- Verify that your firearm is chambered for 20 gauge 2-3/4″ shells before loading — consult your owner’s manual or the barrel stampings if uncertain.
- This ammunition contains lead, a chemical known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm (Prop 65). Wash hands after handling ammunition or spent hulls.
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